- New research from Lightspeed reveals that 55% of diners choose dishes with specific health benefits like fibre or protein
- 77% believe restaurants should offer adults-only dining spaces
- 40% are interested in AI-powered tools that can make their dining experience more seamless
London, May 2026: Lightspeed Commerce Inc. (NYSE: LSPD) (TSX: LSPD) (“Lightspeed” or the “Company“): UK diners are demanding healthier menus, greater control over restaurant environments, and technology-powered dining experiences, according to new research from Lightspeed.
As consumer expectations evolve, the findings point to three major shifts redefining hospitality in the UK:
Health-focused dining is reshaping menus
Brits are becoming more intentional about what they eat, with over half (55%) saying ingredients with specific health benefits – such as high protein, fibre, or gut-friendly properties – are important when choosing a dish. Nearly half (49%) are even willing to pay more for meals that include these benefits.
But it’s not just what we eat that’s changing: the increased popularity of weight management medication means diners are evolving how they think about food too. 27% say they are more mindful of portion sizes than two years ago, the highest proportion in Europe, and 35% want clear calorie labelling on menus to help them make more balanced choices. What’s more, over a fifth (21%) would like operators to create specific weight management-focused menus to help them meet their goals.
Diners want tailored spaces, without a price premium
It’s not just what’s on the plate that matters – how and with whom people dine with is becoming just as important. A significant proportion (77%) believe restaurants should offer adults-only dining, and 41% would like designated 18+ sections in venues. While eating out remains a social occasion for many, it’s clear that quieter, adult-focused settings are becoming almost as important as the food itself for many diners (82%).
At the same time, affordability continues to influence how much people are willing to pay at the table. Nearly half of diners (48%) want access to reduced-price menus at certain times of the day, the highest in Europe, while 26% say rising costs are prompting them to share dishes or order fewer items. These trends show a growing tension between tailored and quality experiences that remain affordable.
Technology can elevate service, but expectations are high
Technology is increasingly seen as a way to enhance the dining experience. 40% of diners say they are interested in AI-powered tools, such as personalised recommendations or voice-assisted ordering.
However, expectations around execution remain high. Reliability (43%) and smooth coordination between front-and back-of-house teams (33%) are among the most important factors shaping a positive experience. For operators, the opportunity lies in using technology to streamline service while preserving the human touch that diners value.
Liam Crooks, Managing Director of EMEA Hospitality commented on the findings: “The UK hospitality industry is being pulled in multiple directions. Diners are looking for healthier options, more control over their experience, and seamless service, but they don’t want to pay more for it.
For operators already facing cost pressures, meeting these expectations will require careful balance. The challenge now is finding a middle ground that meets what diners want and what restaurants can realistically deliver.”
ENDS.
Methodology
- Lightspeed initiated a consumer survey throughout March and April 2026 using third party survey vendor Censuswide. 1,000 responses were collected across the UK. Respondents were required to be over the age of 18 and have dined at a sit-down restaurant within the last 6 months in the UK. All responses collected were anonymous, and have been quality reviewed for a reasonable margin of error.
About Lightspeed
Lightspeed is the ePOS and payments platform powering businesses at the heart of communities in over 100 countries. As the partner of choice for ambitious retail, golf and hospitality entrepreneurs, Lightspeed helps businesses accelerate growth, deliver exceptional customer experiences, and run smarter across all channels and locations.
With fast, flexible omnichannel technology, Lightspeed brings together point of sale, ecommerce, embedded payments, inventory, reporting, staff and supplier management, financial services, and an exclusive wholesale retail network. Backed by insights, and expert support, Lightspeed helps businesses run more efficiently and focus on what they do best.
Founded in Montréal, Canada in 2005, Lightspeed is dual-listed on the New York Stock Exchange and Toronto Stock Exchange (NYSE: LSPD) (TSX: LSPD), with teams across North America, Europe, and Asia Pacific.
For more information, see www.lightspeedhq.co.uk.
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